AI could reshape long-term U.S. economic growth

AI could reshape long-term U.S. economic growth

AI could reshape long-term U.S. economic growth

https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/investing/market-outlook/2026/06/29/market-outlook-sp-500-could-hit-8000-on-ai-productivity-gains/

Publish Date: 2026-06-29 12:41:00

Source Domain: www.bnnbloomberg.ca

Here are several key points from the BNN Bloomberg interview with Jim Thorne, chief market strategist at Wellington-Altus Private Wealth, regarding his 2026 mid-year market outlook:

  • New Economic Regime: Thorne believes a new economic regime is taking shape due to factors such as artificial intelligence (AI), productivity gains, and supply-side economic policies, suggesting that historical investment patterns may no longer be applicable.

  • U.S. Economic Leadership: He expects the U.S. economy to drive the next phase of growth, with U.S. companies likely to generate stronger earnings compared to consensus forecasts.

  • Impact of AI: Thorne expects AI to drive long-term structural growth rather than just a typical technological boom, leading to enhanced productivity and earnings growth for companies.

  • S&P 500 Forecast: He expects the S&P 500 to reach 8,000, driven by earnings momentum and AI-related productivity gains although a forecast of 8,400 would be optimistic.

  • Geopolitical Tensions: Thorne views current geopolitical tensions as a temporary supply shock rather than a lasting threat to corporate earnings, confident that markets will absorb this disruption.

  • Canada’s Economic Challenges: Thorne argues that Canada is experiencing a balance-sheet recession and recommends a further reduction in interest rates by the Bank of Canada to spur demand for private sector loans.

  • Secular Bull Market: He is optimistic about a secular bull market driven by AI and productivity gains, labeling the current market condition as a unique opportunity in an investor’s career.

These points provide a comprehensive overview of Thorne’s views on the evolving market environment and economic outlook for the mid-year of 2026.